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A microwave is an electromagnetic wave with a very short wavelength, between .039 inches (1 millimeter) and 1 foot (30 centimeters). Within the electromagnetic spectrum, microwaves can be found between radio waves and shorter infrared waves. Their short wavelengths make microwaves ideal for use in radio and television broadcasting. They can transmit along a vast range of frequencies without causing signal interference or overlap.

Microwave technology was developed during World War II (1939–45) in connection with secret military radar research. Today, microwaves are used primarily in microwave ovens and communications. A microwave communications circuit can transmit any type of information as efficiently as...